Good luck from Prime Minister Gillard

Released	28 April 2011

Prime Minister Julia Gillard has wished Barnardos Australia’s Mother of the Year state winners good luck ahead of the announcement of the overall winner at a special ceremony on Thursday 5 May.

“I am delighted to extend my best wishes on the occasion of Barnardos Australia’s Mother of the Year Awards for 2011,” said the Prime Minister.

“Your achievements are truly inspirational and highlight the exceptional role played by all our mothers in nurturing families and giving our children the bright future they deserve.

Launched in 1996, the Barnardos Australia’s Mother of the Year Awards are the only national awards which celebrate Australian motherhood and recognise the enormous contribution mothers make in shaping Australia’s future generations.

Prime Minister Gillard went on in her well wishes to acknowledge the role of foster carers and organisations such as Barnardos, who provide love and support for children in their care, often in demanding circumstances.

“The safety and wellbeing of children is one of our nation’s highest priorities.  Nothing is more important to the future.  I offer my warmest congratulations to all State and Territory finalists and to the Barnardos Mother of the Year,” said the Prime Minister.

Barnardos Australia’s Mother of the Year overall winner will be announced at a special gala dinner on Thursday, 5 May 2011.  The evening will be hosted by Barnardos Ambassador Noni Hazlehurst and will include a special performance by Ambassador Pete Murray.

Media Opportunity

What: Barnardos Australia’s Mother of the Year 2011
When: Thursday, 5 May 2011
Time: 6.30pm
Where: The Ivy Room, 320-330 George Street, Sydney
Contact: Sofey Youssef, phone: (02) 9743 2790 or 0419 272 237, email: sofey@bigpicture.com